By Matik Kueth
Northern Bahr el Ghazal State has taken another step toward improving infrastructure and service delivery with the launch of rehabilitation works on the 24-kilometre Akuangap–Marial Baai road.
Governor Gen. Charles Madut Akol officially flagged off the project on Monday, describing the road upgrade as part of broader efforts to strengthen transport links and improve access to essential social services for communities in Nyamlel, Aweil West County, and Aweil Town.
The project is being implemented by African Resources Company (ARC), according to a statement from the Governor’s office.
Officials said the road will ease movement for residents and service providers, particularly in an area long affected by poor road conditions.
The launch ceremony drew several senior officials, including the Acting Minister of Transport, Hon. Akoon Diing Angok, and the Commissioner of Aweil West County, Hon. Abuol Akok Akok, alongside other state and county leaders.
The road initiative comes shortly after Governor Madut completed a tour of counties across the state, during which he reaffirmed his administration’s priorities: peace and security, unity, food security, and the strengthening of health and education services.
Addressing residents during recent public engagements, the Governor urged communities to maintain unity and cooperate closely with the government, stressing that collective responsibility is essential for lasting peace, stability, and sustainable development.
He also encouraged citizens to expand large-scale farming as a way to improve food security and reduce reliance on humanitarian aid, pledging stronger government coordination with relevant institutions to support agricultural productivity.
Local voices have welcomed the road project
Social media commentator Dut Kuot Akok described the rehabilitation as timely, noting that the Akuangap–Marial Baai road had become severely degraded, despite serving a densely populated area that depends on it for access to basic services.
However, Akok also called on the state government to prioritize the Aweil–Udhum road ahead of the rainy season, warning that further delays could disrupt transport and service delivery.